You’ve seen the postcards. White sand, emerald water, and that blinding Florida sun. But if you’re looking at the Panama City FL forecast for mid-January, specifically today, Saturday, January 17, 2026, the reality is a bit more... damp. Honestly, most people pack for the Panhandle like they’re heading to the Bahamas. That’s a mistake.
Right now, Panama City is sitting under a "mostly cloudy" blanket. It’s 57°F. The humidity is a thick 90%, which basically means that cool air is going to stick to your skin like a wet towel. If you’re heading out, don't expect a tan.
The Immediate Outlook: Rain is the Guest of Honor
Today isn't exactly a beach day. We’re looking at a high of 66°F and a low of 42°F. The day starts with light rain, but by tonight, it transitions into full-on showers.
The east wind is blowing at about 12 mph. It’s not a gale, but combined with the 75% chance of rain tonight, it’s enough to make any outdoor plans feel like a soggy chore. You’ve probably heard that Florida rain "passes in ten minutes." Usually, yeah. But today? The forecast says otherwise.
What to expect for the rest of the weekend
If you can just hold out until tomorrow, Sunday, January 18, things take a wild turn. The clouds are expected to clear out, giving way to a "sunny" day. But here is the kicker: the temperature is going to tank.
We are talking about a high of only 48°F. That is a 18-degree drop from today's high. Even weirder? There is a 75% chance of rain during the day Sunday, but as the temperature drops to 36°F at night, the forecast is actually calling for a 0% chance of... snow? Yeah, snow. While it's listed as 0% chance of "snow type" precipitation for the night, the fact that it's on the radar at all tells you how chilly this north wind (hitting at 14 mph) is going to be.
The 2026 Winter Pattern in Panama City
Winter in the Panhandle is short, but it’s moody.
Monday and Tuesday (January 19-20) look like they'll stabilize a bit. You’ll get your sun back on Monday with a high of 54°F. It’s the kind of weather where locals break out the heavy parkas and tourists from Ohio are still wearing shorts, though they’re usually shivering while they do it.
The humidity is going to drop significantly by then—down to around 40%. It’ll feel crisp. Dry. Totally different from the muggy 90% we’re feeling today.
Mid-week shifts
By Wednesday, January 21, the clouds return. It’s a cycle.
- Wednesday: Cloudy, high of 59°F.
- Thursday: Light rain returns (35% chance), high of 61°F.
- Friday: Finally, some "mostly sunny" vibes with a high of 63°F.
What Most People Forget to Pack
If you are looking at the Panama City FL forecast and thinking "flip-flops," think again.
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You need layers. Specifically, wind-resistant layers. That north wind coming off the Gulf in January doesn't care about your tropical ambitions. It cuts right through a cotton hoodie.
Actionable Insights for your Trip:
- Check the UV Index: Even on cloudy days like today (UV index of 2), the Florida sun is deceptive. But by Sunday and Monday, it jumps to a 4. You’ll still get burned in 50-degree weather if you aren't careful.
- Rain Gear is Mandatory: With rain chances hovering between 35% and 75% for the next 24 hours, a solid poncho or a sturdy umbrella (that can handle 12 mph winds) is a lifesaver.
- Watch the Humidity: High humidity + 57°F feels way colder than dry air at the same temperature. Dress for 10 degrees colder than the thermometer says when the humidity is over 80%.
Basically, Panama City in January is a game of patience. Today might be grey and drizzly, but the sun is coming—it's just bringing some cold air along with it. Pack a sweater, grab a coffee at a local spot like Amavida, and wait for the Sunday sun.
Keep an eye on that Sunday night low of 36°F. If you’ve got plants outside or pipes that are sensitive, it’s getting close to that "better safe than sorry" territory.